Saddle River Residents Urged to Test Private Wells for PFOS Contamination

Saddle River Issues Advisory on PFOS Contamination in Private Well Water

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Saddle River NJ, Mayor Albert Kurpis has issued a public advisory urging residents to test their private wells for PFOS contamination following a recent report of contamination in the borough.

The warning comes after Councilman Duncan Carpenter confirmed that his own well tested positive for PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), a member of the PFAS family of so-called “forever chemicals” that persist in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over time.

Why PFOS Testing Matters for Saddle River Homeowners

PFOS is part of a broader group of industrial chemicals known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), historically used in products like firefighting foam and metal plating. These chemicals are linked to serious health concerns, including:

• Liver damage

• Immune system disruption

• Decreased vaccine response

• Developmental delays in infants

• Increased risk of certain cancers

“PFOS contamination can accumulate in the body over time, leading to long-term health effects,” said Mayor Kurpis. “Testing and proper treatment are the best ways to protect your family from potential risks.”

Most Saddle River Homes Rely on Private Wells

Of the 1,372 households in Saddle River, only about 250 are connected to a public water system. The vast majority rely on private wells and are individually responsible for monitoring water quality.

New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) implemented strict PFAS water quality standards in 2020, but these regulations primarily cover public water systems. Private well owners must take initiative to ensure their water is safe.

How to Protect Your Water and Get Financial Help

Councilman Carpenter is applying to the state’s Spill Compensation Fund to offset the cost of confirmatory testing and water treatment. Mayor Kurpis encourages other residents to take advantage of this reimbursement opportunity.

Steps to Take:

1. Schedule an Initial Water Test with a certified New Jersey lab (Note: This initial test is not reimbursable).

2. If PFOS is detected above the regulatory limit, schedule a confirmatory test.

3. Get three estimates for installing a filtration system.

4. Complete and notarize a Spill Fund damage claim form.

5. Submit your claim to NJDEP with:

   • Confirmatory test results

   • System quotes

   • Claim form

   • Proof of home ownership

For more details, visit the NJDEP Environmental Claims Administration website or call 609-984-2076.

Conclusion

With PFOS contamination posing a serious health threat, Saddle River residents should act quickly to test their private wells and take steps to protect their families. The Spill Fund offers critical financial assistance, making water safety both accessible and affordable.

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